Bullying and IEPs

The Individualized Education Program (IEP) and Bullying

Research demonstrates that students with disabilities are at greater risk of being bullied, but they also have direct opportunities to address the situation. With the appropriate tools and support systems in place, a child can be a part of changing the situation. One essential tool available to educators, parents, and students is the Individualized Education Program (IEP).

A child’s team – parents and other IEP team members – should work together to make the IEP reflect the child’s unique needs in school, including the need to be safe from bullying. The IEP team members should consider a variety of supports, accommodations, and strategies that can be incorporated into the IEP to support the student. A school psychologist may be involved in writing social-emotional goals that are measurable and relevant. Including the child in the IEP decision-making process, if appropriate, can also lead to better outcomes.

Read more about ways to include bullying prevention measures in your child's IEP.